Immerse yourself in the Bavarian village of Helen, Georgia! This bustling arts and shopping district is also a cobblestone-lined Bavarian Alpine village. Find more than 200 specialty shops featuring everything from blown glass to cuckoo clocks and miniatures. 

To see a vignette of the city, float the beautiful Chattahoochee River with Cool River Tubing or drive the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway . Hike or bike the evergreen Unicoi State Park, ride the Georgia Mountain Coaster or zip through forests with Nacoochee Adventures.

Sample fine North Georgia wines at Habersham Winery, or spoon up some "Georgia Ice-Cream," otherwise known as grits, at Nora Mill Granary. The Troll Tavern and Cafe International offer traditional German fare like bratwurst and schnitzel. 

Celebrate Oktoberfest in Helen every fall with a parade, live music and polka dancing. Visit the Festhalle for German-style food and drink, and see a Munich-style ceremonial tapping of the keg. Helen’s festive atmosphere will make you think you've traveled all the way to Germany! Check the calendar of events for more festivals and fun throughout the year in Helen.

When you’re ready to call it a night, stay at quirky picks like Valhalla Resort Hotel and The Heidi Motel. Outdoor enthusiast can camp at Smithgall Woods State Park or Pinnacle Cabin Rentals.